Jennings Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture of Jennings, Louisiana with our in-depth tour guide.


Jennings, a city in Southwest Louisiana, is known for its rich history, cultural significance, and natural beauty. This comprehensive tour guide will help you plan your trip to Jennings by highlighting the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture.

Introduction to Jennings

Jennings is located in Acadiana, known for its Cajun and Creole culture, and is situated in the southwest region of Louisiana, in the United States of America. With its deep-rooted history and vibrant culture, Jennings is a hidden gem that deserves to be explored. The city has numerous museums, historical sites, lush parks, and natural attractions that make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure and culture.

List of Places to Visit in Jennings

Jennings has a variety of places to explore, including culturally significant museums and historical places, stunning natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, exciting activities and tours, vibrant food and drink scene, excellent accommodation options, and much more.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Jennings has a rich history that has been beautifully preserved in its museums and historical places. The city’s cultural significance is evident in the following sites:

  • Zigler Museum: This museum celebrates the art and culture of Louisiana. It houses over 2000 artifacts and artwork pieces which will leave anyone in awe.
  • Tupper General Merchandise Museum: An ode to the history of the United States, this museum has more than 100 years of history attached to it.
  • Strand Theatre: This theatre was renovated in the 1990s to preserve its Art Deco architecture and has since been entertaining visitors with classic movies and musical performances.

Natural Attractions of Jennings: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Jennings is known for its natural beauty, and there are various parks, lakes, and gardens to explore in the city:

  • Louisiana Oil and Gas Park: This massive park is a tribute to the oil and gas industry with machinery and equipment on display.
  • Martin Luther King Drive Park: This park, situated in the center of the city, has a pavilion, walking trails, and playgrounds, making for a popular attraction among families.
  • Lake Arthur: Situated just outside Jennings, this lake is famous for its stunning sunsets, boating, and fishing opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jennings

Jennings offers diverse trails for both hikers and bikers, with the majority of the routes winding through scenic landscapes. Here are a few hiking/biking routes:

  • W.H. Tupper Bike Trail: This scenic trail runs along Bayou Nezpique, near the Zigler Museum.
  • Lacassine Rail Trail: This scenic trail is one of the most frequented in Jennings. It runs through cypress swamps, forests, and prairies.

Best Things to Do in Jennings: Activities and Tours

There are many activities and tours to indulge in while visiting Jennings:

  • City tour: Take a tour of the city and explore some of the prominent buildings and historical landmarks.
  • Cajun dance class: Attend a Cajun dance class and learn about the music, dance, and culture of Louisiana.
  • Festivals and events: Jennings hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Cochon de Lait Festival and the Louisiana Oil and Gas Festival.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jennings

If you are planning to spend a week in Jennings, consider the following itinerary:

Day 1: Explore downtown Jennings and visit the Zigler Museum and Strand Theatre. Day 2: Visit the Tupper General Merchandise Museum and ride bikes on the Lacassine Rail Trail. Day 3: Visit Lake Arthur and watch the sunset. Day 4: Take a Cajun dance class and attend a local festival or event. Day 5: Visit the Louisiana Oil and Gas Park and spend the rest of the day exploring Martin Luther King Drive Park. Day 6: Take a city tour, and attend a dinner theatre. Day 7: Relax and try local cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Jennings

Jennings is known for its southern influenced food and drinks. Some of the must-try dishes and local beverages include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Jambalaya: A classic Cajun dish with rice, chicken, and sausage.
  • Crawfish etouffee: A delicious stew made with crawfish, onions, and other vegetables.
  • Red beans and rice: A simple, yet flavorful dish of red beans, rice, and smoked sausage.

Local Beverages

  • Abita beer: A local Louisiana beer, it comes in a variety of flavors.
  • Sweet tea: A go-to beverage with Southern meals.

Where to Stay in Jennings: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Jennings has several hotel and accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences:

  • Days Inn: A budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Jennings.
  • The Jennings Hotel: A historic bed and breakfast that offers charming rooms and a home-like ambiance.
  • Hampton Inn: A modern hotel with excellent amenities, including a pool and gym.

What to Buy in Jennings: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are various local products and souvenirs that you can take home as a memento of your trip to Jennings:

  • Crawfish accessories: Take home some crawfish-inspired accessories, like bags, t-shirts, and mugs.
  • Louisiana hot sauce: A classic Louisiana hot sauce, with a kick to it.
  • Cajun spices: Take home some Cajun spices, which add flavor to any dish.

Local Culture and Customs of Jennings

Jennings is proud of its Cajun and Creole culture, which is evident in the food, music, dance, and architecture of the city. Mardi Gras is a popular festival in Jennings, and locals often participate in parades and parties during the festival.

Best Time to Visit Jennings

The best time to visit Jennings is during the spring or fall season. The weather is mild during these seasons, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Summers in Jennings can be hot and humid, while winters can be mild.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jennings

Do:

  • Try the local food and beverage.
  • Respect local customs and culture.
  • Participate in local festivities and events.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural attractions.
  • Disrespect locals or their traditions.
  • Engage in illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Jennings is generally a safe city, but travelers should exercise caution like they would in any new place. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Jennings

  • Avoid walking alone at night in desolate areas.
  • Keep valuable belongings in a secure place.
  • Keep emergency numbers handy.

Health in Jennings

  • Stay hydrated while engaging in outdoor activities.
  • Insect repellent is a must during outdoor activities.
  • Listen to your body and seek medical attention if needed.

Getting to Jennings: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Jennings is easy, and there are several transportation options available to you:

Airports Near Jennings

  • Lafayette Regional Airport: 36 miles from Jennings.
  • Lake Charles Regional Airport: 50 miles from Jennings.

Bus Stations Near Jennings

  • Greyhound bus station: Located in downtown Jennings.

Other Options

  • Car rentals: Car rental companies are available near the airport.
  • Taxi services: Taxis are readily available in Jennings.

How to Get Around in Jennings

The best way to get around in Jennings is by car. There are car rental options available near the airport. Taxis also provide transportation services in the area.

Where to Go Next from Jennings: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time, explore the nearby destinations:

  • Lake Charles: A city located 40 miles from Jennings, known for its casinos and recreational activities.
  • Lafayette: A city located 60 miles from Jennings, known for its Cajun and Creole culture.

Conclusion

We hope this comprehensive tour guide to Jennings, Louisiana, has provided useful tips for exploring the best places to visit and things to do in the city. Indulge in the culture, food, and natural beauty that Jennings has to offer. Safe travels!